Learn how to create a powerful operating system on the go!
Learn how to create a powerful operating system on the go!
Today we aim to build a bootable USB stick, not just a temporary CD. We'll need: 1. An empty DVD 2. A solid flash drive (preferably at least 16 GB) 3. Fedora 20 32 Bit ISO (any version works) Prep: You must have a compatible ISO file. Fedora supports PAE, which is essential for this setup. Download Fedora 20 (32 Bit). Once ready, burn the file to your blank CD or DVD using right-click > burn to disk. (Attribution due to creator.) After burning, verify the disk in BIOS, let it complete. Insert the USB into a USB 2.0 port—some systems won’t boot from USB 3—and restart. In BIOS, arrange boot order so DVD comes first, then the flash drive. Save and exit, then boot from the DVD. Installation: Choose Fedora, confirm it’s on the USB, not your main drive. Pick custom partitioning: Boot size 500MB, swap 32MB, remaining 6GB (on a 16GB drive). Click plus in the lower left, select /Home, set to 8GB if available. Adjust time zone and other settings, then click finish in the top left. Enter your password, create an account, and save. When done, remove the DVD and restart. Setup: Congratulations! Fedora is now running on your flash drive. Next, we’ll add PAE, Cinnamon, and Docky with essential apps. To enable PAE, open terminal, type `su -`, enter your password, then run `yum install kernel-PAE`. Reboot when prompted. Install Cinnamon with `yum install cinnamon` and Docky via the menu. Remember to free space as you add programs. You now have a portable OS ready for use. Notes: 32-bit PAE works best on 32-bit or 64-bit systems with over 4 GB RAM. If issues arise, try low graphics mode in Fedora. Conclusion: This method is handy for traveling when laptops are inconvenient. I’ve used it multiple times and it’s saved my day twice. Share your thoughts!
Fedora supports an ARM variant that receives regular updates, ideal for users with ARM-based hardware such as Android tablets, Raspberry Pi, or Nvidia Jetson devices.